363. Don’t Forget

As we finished breakfast, paid our bill, and got up to leave, I reached out to shake Stan’s hand.  As I did so, I said, ‘Merry Christmas, Stan!’”

Rather than taking my hand, Stan opened his arms and embraced me, saying, “Merry Christmas to you, my friend.  May it be a day of joy, peace, and happiness.”

“Thank you, Stan,” I replied.  The same to you and yours.”

“Don’t forget to remember,” Stan responded.

“Remember what?” I asked.

“That Christ is the reason for Christmas.  With everything the world throws at us, it is too easy to get caught up and to forget the really good news of why we celebrate Christmas.”

“Christ and Christ alone!”

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And the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which shall be for all people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”  Luke 2:10, 11.

Prayer:  Thank you, Lord, for the birth of Christ the Savior.  Thank you for those who brought me to the truth of why I am to celebrate Christmas.  I confess that sometimes I get caught up in the world’s view of Christmas and forget your view.  Please forgive me and please lead me to never forget and to always proclaim the really good news of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Thank you I can and do bring these prayers before you in the name of Jesus.  Amen.